During the draft, the Rams built up assets to help construct the future of their franchise.
The Rams came into the draft looking to improve their secondary and offensive line and add some safety depth. The Rams did not pick until the second round when they took Taylor Rapp. The round three pick surprised many people when Rams selected Darrell Henderson; perhaps the Rams are worried about Todd Gurley’s knee.
The Rams picked up some good offensive line depth; the two young linemen can learn behind Andrew Whitworth and replace him when he is done playing. With Aqib Talib and Marcus Peters slated to be free agents, David Long was a solid pick-up for the Rams.
Round 2, Selection 61
Taylor Rapp, Safety, Washington
Grade: A-
The Rams added some safety depth with Taylor Rapp. He will probably play behind Eric Weddle and John Johnson. Rapp is quick, fast, and athletic safety. Last season at Washington, Rapp had 59 tackles and two interceptions. With the Rams being thin at linebacker, they could play more of a dime defense with Rapp around the line of scrimmage. Rapp is similar to Vikings safety Harrison Smith.
Round 3, Selection 70
Darrell Henderson, Running Back, Memphis
Grade: B
Henderson is there to spell Todd Gurley and not replace him, but some wonder if Gurley’s knee will be a long-term issue. Henderson adds another dynamic back to Sean McVay’s offense. He rushed for 1,909 yards and 22 touchdowns last season while adding 19 catches for 295 yards. The former Memphis running back might lack some size, but he runs with power and gets yards after the contact. The Rams will use Henderson like Saints use Alvin Kamara out the backfield with Henderson’s pass-catching ability. The young man is outstanding in the open field.
Round 3, Selection 79
David Long, Cornerback, Michigan
Grade: B-
With Marcus Peters and Aqib Talib in the final year of their contracts, David Long could be a possible replacement. Long will not be called upon a lot this coming year, but he could see some time at slot corner. Long is perfect for the position with his quick feet and loose hips. For a smaller cornerback, Long is very physical, and he likes to play pressman coverage. Last season, Long had one interception and six pass break-ups, but he was not challenged much. He will be a versatile corner who can play inside and out.
Round 3, Selection 97
Bobby Evans, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma
Grade: B
Bobby Evans can play both offensive tackle positions. Last season, he earned All-Big 12 honors. Evans can learn from left tackle Andrew Whitworth on how to be a pro. The former Sooner could also play some guard for the Rams. Evans brings versatility to the Rams offensive line, which lacks depth. Evans can come in and play right away.
Round 4, Selection 134
Greg Gaines, Defensive Tackle, Washington
Grade: B
Gaines is a solid run defender and space eater. He will likely take the place of Ndamkoung Suh at nose tackle. Gaines will be able to eat up space and take on blockers. I see Gaines as a poor man’s Kyle Williams (Bills). Last season at Washington, Gaines had 56 tackles (7.5 for a loss) and 4.5 sacks.
Round 5, Selection 169
David Edwards, Offensive Tackle, Wisconsin
Grade: B-
Edwards is a very athletic offensive tackle; he is good blocking the run and pass. This move adds more depth for the Rams on the offensive line. Edwards will probably battle with Bobby Evans as the heir apparent to Andrew Whitworth. Edwards will need time to develop; his technique was all over the place. Once he gets his routine down, he could turn into an outstanding offensive tackle.
Round 7, Selection 243
Nick Scott, Safety, Penn State
Grade: C
Scott is a converted safety (formerly a running back) who has played two years at the position, capping off his college stint with three interceptions last season. The Rams did not need another safety, but Scott could be a valuable special teams player in the future. Scott is also a good leader on the field.
Round 7, Selection 251
Dakota Allen, Linebacker, Texas Tech
Grade: B
Allen is tough athletically; he flies around the field and makes plays. He ran a 4.77 at the combine. I am pretty sure Allen will be a special team player before he steps on the field as a linebacker. It will be interesting to see how he pans out for the Rams. Allen had 61 tackles and 5.5 sacks last season for Texas Tech.
I think the Rams had an exceptional draft and got everything they needed, except an edge rusher. However, they did find a replacement for Suh in Greg Gaines. The Rams hit on all three phases of the game by drafting offense, defense, and special teams help.
